judge's appointment that judge grimm is a nationally recognized expert on cutting edge issues of law and technology. he has written numerous authoritative opinions, books and articles on the subject of evidence, civil procedure and trial advocacy. he also continues to inspire the next generation of lawyers by teaching classes at both of our law schools, and on several occasions, professor grimm has been awarded the title of outstanding magistrate faculty member. that's as a magistrate judge, he has been able to find time not only to teach but to be an outstanding professor. he has shown his commitment in so many ways to public service. as a magistrate judge, judge grimm is responsible for handling criminal matters such as issuing search warrants, conducting preliminary criminal proceedings and presiding over misdemeanor criminal cases. judge grimm is also responsible for handling civil cases. he has presided over bench and jury trials with the consent of the parties. judge grimm also conducted settlement conferences, resolves discovery disputes and handled other nondepositive matters at the referra